What the research says: pelvic therapy for prolapse

​Written by Michelle Dela Rosa, PT

There is help for pelvic organ prolapse, or laxity in the vaginal or rectal walls. Pelvic floor muscle training in women with prolapse is effective in improving symptoms.

In a randomized controlled trial, 447 females with newly diagnosed prolapse (stages 1-3) were randomly assigned to receive one-on-one pelvic floor muscle training OR education in modifying lifestyle.

​Women in the pelvic muscle training group reported significantly less pelvic organ prolapse symptoms at 12 months than those that just received education. They reported improvement in: activities of daily life, sexual activity, bladder function, and bowel function.​​

It takes time to strengthen pelvic muscles, but our therapists often see muscle training instrumental in avoiding corrective surgery and in other cases, helpful in preparing for surgery. If you've been diagnosed with prolapse, speak to your doctor about physical therapy for pelvic muscle training. If you've had therapy in the past, we're here for you too for "refresher" sessions or ways to improve your current program.